LARE

About the LARE

To practice landscape architecture in Oregon and in states across the US, individuals must pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE). The LARE is a four-part, fully computerized examination designed to determine whether applicants for landscape architectural licensure possess sufficient knowledge, skills and abilities to provide landscape architectural services without endangering the health, safety and welfare of the public. It is prepared and scored by Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) in accordance with all current standards for fairness and quality of licensure exams. The LARE is administered three times a year over a two-week period in April, August and December.

CLARB is a non-profit association and its members are the state and provincial registration boards that regulate the profession of landscape architecture in North America. CLARB’s mission is to foster the public health, safety and welfare related to the use and protection of the natural and built environment affected by the practice of landscape architecture.

The Oregon Landscape Architect Board (OSLAB) registers landscape architects to practice in Oregon. Passing the LARE is one step towards registration. More information on eligibility requirements, application information, and the laws and rules governing landscape architecture in Oregon can be found on the OSLAB web site.

Preparing for the Exam

CLARB offers a number of online resources – many of which are FREE – to help candidates better understand what to expect on each section of the Landscape Architectural Registration Exam. An orientation guide, recommended reading list and YouTube videos are all available. Having a solid understanding of the exam, its purpose, composition, how and what it tests (and what it does not), and how it is evaluated will help candidates to better prepare and develop realistic expectations for the exam experience. Visit CLARB’s Dates, Deadlines and Fees page for information about when the LARE will be administered, exam fees, registration and cancellation deadlines, links to exam resources, and more.

ASLA has developed a number of online resources on their LARE Prep website to help guide members through the examination process and ultimately succeed in becoming a registered landscape architect. Study strategy information is available for ASLA members and new test prep materials are under development.

Private prep courses, webinars and other online resources are also available.

Corson Learning LARE Prep Webinars provides access to recorded videos, live sessions and a moderated chat area for those studying for the exam. Participation is based on a one-year membership fee.

Ray Freeman, Freeman & Jewell Landscape Architecture, provides LARE prep workshops throughout the year in Seattle, the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Find out more about dates and locations by emailing Rayfreeman3@comcast.net

The Oregon Chapter of ASLA is a resource for emerging professionals preparing to take the exam. If you’re looking for more information, searching for prep courses, or wanting to form a study group, please contact the Education and Professional Development Committee chair at education@aslaoregon.org.